5 Common Loan Signing Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
5 Common Loan Signing Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
From a Certified Loan Signing Agent’s Perspective
Real estate closings are exciting—but they also involve a mountain of paperwork. As a Loan Signing Agent in Joplin, I’ve seen it all: smooth signings, last-minute changes, and yes, some avoidable mistakes that cost people time and money.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, refinancing, or involved in a property sale, here are five of the most common signing mistakes—and how to make sure you don’t make them.
1. Missing Signatures or Initials
This is probably the most frequent error I come across—and it’s often the most stressful.
Why it happens: Loan documents are long, repetitive, and full of fine print. It’s easy to overlook a tiny initial box or a signature line.
How to avoid it: Use a trained Loan Signing Agent who knows where every signature, date, and initial goes. I always do a final scan with clients before leaving the table to ensure everything is complete.
2. Incorrect Dates
You’d be surprised how often people backdate or postdate documents without realizing it can invalidate them.
Why it matters: The wrong date can throw off funding timelines or make a document unenforceable.
My tip: I always remind clients to date documents with today’s actual date—not the date they received the papers or the closing date on the loan.
3. Using the Wrong Ink Color
Most lenders require documents to be signed in blue or black ink only, depending on their guidelines.
Why it matters: Ink color is used to distinguish originals from copies. If the wrong color is used, documents might have to be redone.
What I do: I always bring compliant pens to every signing and confirm ink color requirements ahead of time.
4. Signatures That Don’t Match ID
If your signature has changed over the years or looks nothing like your driver’s license, that could be a red flag for the lender.
Why this matters: Lenders need proof that the person signing the document is who they say they are.
Pro tip: Sign consistently, especially if you're signing legal documents. If you’ve changed your name or recently updated your ID, let your signing agent know ahead of time.
5. Not Understanding the Documents
Borrowers don’t need to be real estate experts—but going into a signing blind can cause confusion or hesitation.
Why it happens: Some clients only skim the documents before signing or wait to ask questions during the appointment.
What I encourage: Read through the documents ahead of time if you can. While I can’t give legal advice, I can explain the general purpose of each form, like the Closing Disclosure or the Note, and guide you through what’s expected.
Final Thoughts
Errors in loan documents can lead to funding delays, re-sign appointments, or even having to restart the whole process. That’s why having a knowledgeable, patient, and detail-oriented Loan Signing Agent makes all the difference.
At Joplin Mobile Notary, I focus on getting it right the first time—because your time, peace of mind, and major life moments deserve nothing less.
Need a signing soon or just have questions? I’m always happy to help or provide guidance for your next closing.
Visit www.joplinnotary.com to book your appointment or learn more about our services.
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